But Even If He Doesn't

But even if he doesn't, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up. --Daniel 3:18 Dr. Charles Stanley says, "Be obedient and leave the consequences to God." Kinda sums it up doesn't it? Go ahead and apply it to any circumstance you're facing. Trouble in a relationship? Making a decision about money? Need to trust God with a health issue? Be obedient and leave the consequences to God. Stands up, doesn't it?

Speaking of standing up, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego lived it. At the edge of a fiery furnace, they had a decision. Bow to an idol or be thrown in a furnace. They chose faith, believing that God would deliver them from the very fire that tested it. But then they said, "But even if He doesn't." That part of the verse has taken up residence inside my heart.

They didn't jump knowing they'd be delivered. They jumped knowing The Deliverer. I'm shaking my head as I type this sentence. I want an "Even if He doesn't" kind of faith. Save me, help me, heal me. But even if He doesn't... --Jimmy Peña

Until Next Week: Friends, this is going to be the last entry until after the PrayFit RISE Conference this weekend. We may share the occasional update through the entry portal, but please keep us in your prayers this week and weekend. Such an exciting time and a leap of faith for us. Thank you for everything.

Opening Day

"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." --Romans 8:1Read: Romans 8

Yep, I'm too predictable, aren't I? As I do each year, I'm celebrating the beginning of the Major League Baseball season. Of course, many of you know we're thrilled that the Boys of Summer have taken the field. In fact, I'm not kidding when I say I've been whistling "Take me out to the ballgame" a lot lately. (And maybe now so are you.)

But as I watch my beloved Yankees take the field today, it occurs to me that Opening Day can teach us a lot about grace. Reason being, right before player step into the batter's box, each person's average on the screen will be .000 -- a clean slate. Reverend Scotty Smith says, "Jesus didn't just die to give us a clean slate, but to give us His righteousness." Take a swing at that for a second.

You know, each morning you and I step up to the plate ready to swing away at whatever the day throws at us. Thankfully, no matter how many strikeouts we had yesterday, God's mercy is new with each plate appearance. And with the Resurrection celebration yesterday, it feels so appropriate, no? Jesus conquered death so we can have life; an abundant life with no record of wrongs. When Jesus rose from the grave, He gave us every reason we need to look alive. You know, I'm now whistling a medley. "Take me out to the ballgame"...because I know "He Lives".

--Jimmy Peña

Conference Week! 5 Days away from PrayFit RISE Los Angeles. Thank you for your continued prayers as we count down the days.

We're Silent

"It is finished." --John 19:30 Today, we're silent. Like the angels for six hours that Friday, we're still. Like the naysayers and doubters, who waited at the foot of the cross to hear Jesus take back His promises, and with the disciples who hid their faces from the enemies who sought them, we're speechless. It's Friday. And it is finished. -Jimmy Peña

Uphill Battles

Uphill battles. If anyone understood the phrase, Simon did. Simon of Cyrene was of course the man who helped Jesus carry the cross up the hill toward Calvary. In one moment, a bystander. The next, a cross bearer. He did literally what you and I are called to do figuratively. Little did he know the example he was setting. I wonder if he knew his sin would soon be nailed to the tree he carried. Uphill battles. If anyone understood the phrase, Jesus did. Yet Jesus knew that what He faced, He had to face alone. Nobody on earth, above or below, could take His place as He took ours. But the thought of you and me facing our days without hope was enough to kill Him. The weight of the cross and our helplessness were more than He could bear.

Simon, Jesus. One cross and an uphill battle.

--Jimmy Peña

"One Day More. Another day another destiny. This never-ending road to Calvary." - Les Miserables

Self-Made

"Do you not know I have the power to have you crucified?" --John 19:10Read: John 19

You can't pick up a newspaper, click on a website, or open up Instagram and Twitter without seeing someone claiming to be "self-made." Look to any industry, and there's someone who claims that they got to the top on their own; the Captain of a solo flight from rags to riches. Truth is, thinking we've made it to the top of anything by our "self" is not only tough to swallow, it's dangerous to digest. Like someone once said, "A self-made man runs the risk of worshiping their creator."

Pilate took that risk. He raised his resume in the face of Jesus and beat his own chest. "Do you not know I have the power to have you crucified?" 

Friends, of all weeks, this is one that should remind us that we are nothing without Him. Alone, you and I are self-made messes. And when it comes to our health, if we're blessed to have it, it's a gift. Even the motivation to maintain it is a gift. We can't boast. You and I can't generate any of it alone. So as we recalibrate our souls this holy week, be sure to embrace the real meaning of fitness; service. Let's not get so caught up in the process of health that we forget about the purpose of it. As fitness-minded believers, we'll make the greatest impact when we look in the mirror and see only God's hands and feet.

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Say AMEN if Jesus is your resume. Say AMEN if Jesus is your boast. Isn't He so good? Let's praise Him with our health and our God-made lives today.

Meeting His Eyes

"The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter." --Luke 22:61Read: Luke 22

Have you ever stopped to think about all the great and odd ways that God gets the attention of His people? Lazarus woke up and Jonah saw the inside of a whale. Just run through the Bible and we find countless examples of jaw-dropping, head-swiveling surrender to God's presence and authority.

And though you and I don't cheat tombs or choke whales, we can all identify with Peter at the fire pit. Heard any roosters lately? How many opportunities to witness for Jesus have we allowed to go up in smoke? Perhaps around the fire pit of jobs, school or the gym? Like Peter, we all know how it feels to disappoint Christ, and though we'd like to turn back time, Christ turns back our attention. (Notice today's verse.) Just like Peter, it's when our eyes meet those of Jesus that we're broken -- in heart and in spirit -- and His work through us truly begins.

Question for Holy Week: What does it say to you that amidst the chaos, the trial, and the death sentence, Jesus' attention was on Peter and his darkest hour?

--Jimmy Peña

10 DAYS! PrayFit RISE Los Angeles is in 10 days. We are so grateful for your prayers. Some of you have asked if there is a way to help from afar, and yes, we are also still in need of sponsorship funds. All of the proceeds go toward charity and non-profit ministry. If you can help us meet the needs for this cause, please click the give button and you can write-in "PrayFit RISE" as your choice. Thank you so much for your help and heart. We're so thankful. - Team PrayFit

Carry Your Purpose

There he was. Tied up. Who knows how long he’d been waiting? The most insignificant of animals with an inconsequential life. No thoroughbred blood running through his veins. His next meal was his only solace between chores. A helpless laborer, a meaningless creature. When, all of a sudden… If you’re like me, you’ve questioned your significance. Is this really what I was meant to do? Well, the next time you ponder your purpose, think of that donkey. Jesus asked for him SPECIFICALLY. Sure, the Lord could have chosen any method of transportation, but He chose him. Uniquely qualified, his purpose was to carry Jesus to His.

Forgive my sentimental imagination, but I like to think that a donkey NOBODY had ever ridden knew exactly who he carried. I bet he did his best to make Jesus proud. Of course we don’t know what the Lord said to him as He got off and walked away, maybe nothing. But this humble writer likes to think that as the crowd took Jesus the rest of the way, that little donkey stood taller than ever. After all, Jesus needed a ride." –Jimmy Peña

Question: Have you ever pondered your purpose? Ever wondered what Jesus could use you for? No matter what your life’s calling or trade, there is someone you know or someone you don’t who is empty and lost. You’re hand-picked. Like the donkey in our story, you may be the carrier of their only hope. So, deliver. Carry your purpose.

His Name Is John

"How can I be sure this will happen? I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years." --Luke 1:18 Not his best moment. If you read today's chapter, you know that Zacharias has just been given really great news; news of eternal significance. He's been told that Elizabeth will bear him a son. And his son will go before the Lord with the spirit and power of Elijah no doubt. He'll be the frontrunner! And not only that, the courier of this miracle message wasn't a neighbor. It wasn't a trusted uncle or even the High Priest. No, Zacharias heard this first-hand from -- wait for it -- none other than Angel Gabriel himself.

Now, all things being equal, you'd think it would prompt Zacharias to simply rejoice, trust and obey. But as you read in today's verse, Zacharias chose to respond like you and I often do.

Who me? I'm not qualified for that job, have you seen my resume? Who me? A missionary? Have you read my laundry list of weaknesses? Who me? Regain my health after years of negligence? What good can this body accomplish?

There's no telling how effective we would be for the Lord if we trusted the things God lays on our hearts. You know, the little faith of Zacharias spoke volumes, so Gabriel made him mute. Months later, on the very day of his son's birth, those standing around Elizabeth objected to his given name. But Zacharias -- still mute -- boldly wrote on his tablet: HIS NAME IS JOHN.

And in that instant, the Bible says he got his voice back.

--Jimmy Peña

Question: When you and I let fear and doubt cloud our hearts and minds, we too become mute. Isn't it interesting that Zacharias was only allowed to speak after he changed his heart and trusted? What has God put on your heart that you need a voice for?  What roadblocks and barriers are rearing their heads? What is your God-given plan? Let's clear our throats and speak.

I Will Carry You

Kids picking up firewood helping their Daddy. A teenager helping his mom with chores carrying a heavy bin. A new husband carrying his bride across the threshold. Life is full of moments - from the forgettable to the priceless - where we carry things and where we carry others. Yesterday I sat down with a young leader in FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) here in California. We met for coffee to discuss the upcoming PrayFit RISE conference and just to meet as new friends. Neat guy. Newly married, new to Los Angeles, new to ministry. Best part, he loves baseball. A former ballplayer himself, he actually looks like he could play football instead. Big guy. Gentle giant. Well, my mind wandered as we were talking. He's just starting his life, I thought to myself, making an impact on countless athletes. Who knows the number of kids this guy will influence. It was neat to talk to him. And I tried as best I could to relay what we're hoping to do with our little ministry; where I've been, and what the Lord has seen me through. I didn't go into too much detail about my health, but I gave him a condensed version. I basically told him, I can't carry much anymore.

Dear friends, Steven Curtis Chapman sings a neat song with a simple message. I will carry you to Jesus on my knees. I want that to be true. I may not be physically able anymore - I'm not even able to do my own DVD series that many of you have loved over the years - but if you need to cry, I'll cry with you. I'll give you what I have. I'll carry you to Jesus on my knees. -Jimmy Peña

Sentimental Me: Can you tell this was typed in tears? Oh well, many of you know me by now and probably aren't surprised. Who in your life do you carry to Jesus? How is your health helping you share Jesus with those you know and love?

Either Spoken or Sung

I'm likely giving away my age when I remind you of one of my favorite praise and worship songs, "I Just Came To Praise The Lord." Anyone?...Anyone?

"I just came to praise the Lord. I just came to praise the Lord. I just came to praise His holy name. I just came to praise the Lord."

Classic, right? On more than one occasion, I've felt like that in church. Shake hands, wave at friends, but get me to my seat. I need to talk to Jesus. I felt like that on my walk yesterday. I didn't set any land speed records, but it's always such a good time talking to the Lord, cleansing my heart, clearing my mind, praying for family, asking for wisdom, planning the PrayFit RISE conference. Far beyond the physical benefits the walking is doing to my continued recovery, my training has always been an extension of my quiet time. Sure, each stride sends vital nutrients to aid in healing, but my walk is more important.

Try it. Next time you hit the gym or go for your jog, remember today's little ditty. As you raise those weights overhead, remember the ultimate burden He lifted. As you run your miles, recall the distance He went to call you His own. And I know, the world will demand that you "focus" on the goal and the reason you're in the gym in the first place. And your response can either be spoken or sung, because truly, you are.

--Jimmy Peña

Pray For Us: We're less than 3 weeks away from PrayFit RISE Los Angeles. Guys, we're getting so excited and so much to do. We thank you and we covet your prayers for the attendees, speakers, and volunteers. "GRACE IS ENOUGH" Featuring: Matt Brown of Think Eternity, David Martin of I AM SECOND students, Lauren DeMoss of TheFulltimeGirl, Brooke Boon of Holy Yoga, Alisa Keeton of Revelation Wellness, Dana White of The Food Network, Jarrid Wilson of LifePoint Church, with Shawn Thornton of Calvary Community and Scotty Smith of The Gospel Coalition. Special musical guest Brenton Brown and hosted by Jimmy Peña of PrayFit Ministries (Sponsored in part by Pepperdine University, Bible Logos, Holy Yoga, Revelation Wellness, and Leland Family Ministries in association with Panera Bread and Barnes & Noble Booksellers.)

God Is Big Enough

Back in 2007 when I was the fitness director at Muscle & Fitness Magazine (prior to all the illness and when I was still put together physically) I had an email conversation with Louie Giglio (many of you are Louie fans). Louie and I go back to my college days at Baylor. Anyway, we were discussing God's purpose for my life which was to impact the fitness industry for Christ, and he gave me some of the best advice I ever received. He simply said, "Jimmy, embrace your smallness." Boy, was he spot on. Guys, Charles Spurgeon once said, "Health is a gift from God, but sickness is a gift greater still." Spurgeon suffered with various physical problems that eventually took his life. He wanted to be healthy, but he knew the value of being sick, and he thanked God for it because it was his pain that caused him to desperately draw near to God.

On the subject, Pastor Tullian says, "When you're aware of your smallness through sickness, when you become aware of your dependence and your neediness, you actually come to life! There is something liberating about waking up each day knowing you're not nearly as strong as you think you are."

BOOOM! I just got the chills typing that. Indeed, great faith doesn't mean great health; too many saints in Heaven for that to be true. If you're suffering or you have loved ones suffering (or even if you're strong as an ox still able to battle) be encouraged. Grace is enough. God's love never fails even when our bodies do. When you lay your head down on your pillow later tonight, do what I do. Squeeze it and smile. Embrace your smallness knowing God is big enough. -Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: As we begin a new week, what two things do you pray for and cherish?

A Courageous Reaction

What a week, right? So blessed by C.S. Lewis and his children's tale "Chronicles of Narnia." I could likely write a month's worth of devotions about them, because the films are so full of gold, but nonetheless, for those that were here each day to be encouraged, I hope that came true. You know, a sign we're growing in grace is knowing the source of our strength. And on Monday we were reminded that we need godly courage to meet each day's needs, and all those needs can only be met by the Lion in us. Tuesday young Edmund helped us recall that no matter how far we've wandered, despite our mistakes and missteps, and even in the midst of unforeseen infirmities, a face-to-face with Jesus is the birthplace of faith and the beginning of courage. And yesterday (my favorite moment of the week) little Reepicheep offered his sword, but was quickly taught that he thought too much of his honor. (Right?) Neat, neat.

Courage. Godly courage. I have very little of it. But during weeks like this, something inside me rises up. Somewhere deep in my heart, a timid Jimmy digs his heels in a little deeper for whatever the day has in store. Hopefully that's the same for you. Whether you need courage for your health, an illness, work-related issue, family struggle, or sharing Christ with strangers, I pray your default reaction is a courageous one.

And so....farewell, Aslan. Or as the kids of Narnia would say, "Long live, Aslan!" Yeah, thanks my friend. Needed you this week. Thank you for reminding us that with Jesus in our hearts, we've conquered this world through Him. Thank you for the courage you've helped us summon through the gospel of grace. And I meant what I said. If I could hug you, I would. So as this sentimental fool types through his tears, I think I speak for all the readers today when I say you're welcome here anytime. Jimmy Peña

DID YOU ENJOY COURAGE WEEK? Hope so. Any thoughts? Feedback on the week? Love to hear from you and pray with you.

Lost Tails And All

Well, before we say goodbye to Aslan, I wanted to hopefully encourage you with one more principle that I drew from C.S. Lewis in his children's tale. In a cute, comical scene, Aslan is talking to Reepicheep; a brave, sword-fighting mouse who has lost his tail in a great battle. While Aslan tells Reepicheep that the shortened tail becomes him well, Reepicheep dramatically offers his sword to Aslan saying that because of his deformity, he must resign from duty. "All the same, great King. I regret that I must withdraw, for a tail is the honor and glory of a mouse." Then Aslan delivers probably one of the strongest lines in the film (perfect for mice and men.) He replied, "Perhaps you think too much of your honor, friend."

Wow. I actually pressed rewind to hear that again. Perhaps you think too much of your honor. What a powerful principle and a perfect reminder for us during courage week. Guys, when we focus on our abilities, inabilities, physical or otherwise, we get wrapped up in our own honor and ego. We think if we're not whole, we're not us. But with God, we're whole. We're enough. Lost tails and all.

Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: I can relate to Reepicheep. I used to be pretty fit and strong; put together. (True story.) Honor intact, I had the world by the...tail. Then I started losing spinal disks and colon function. LOL, yeah, that'll do it. Many a day I offered God my sword, withdrawing from duty. Like Reepicheep, I thought too much of my honor. But God had other plans. So I kept typing, He kept healing. Yeah, I used to think I was put together with muscle and bone, when in truth, I've always been held together by a thread. And that's enough.

Facing Courage

"And then that word grew louder and louder until it was a battle cry."- lyrics of "The Call" from The Chronicles of Narnia.

Here we find Edmund before heading off to war - a stubborn, power-hungry, disobedient boy who wandered away from what was right to seek his own glory - seen here talking to Aslan. The neat part about this scene - and the reason I chose it today - is that we don't hear the conversation between the two. What we do know is that all it took for Edmund to turn his life around was a face-to-face with the One who saved him.

Courage is our battle cry this week, and so many people responded to yesterday's entry. Prayer requests, special needs, courage seekers, and as I type this very sentence a need was posted from a reader who can't quite put into words what she's feeling or thinking. Having wandered far from God, as well as, recently diagnosed with cancer, she's unsure of what she needs or if she's even worthy to ask for it.

Guys, so many people around us are hurting, scared and desperate; in need of hope as they head off to war.

Truth: No matter how far we've wandered, despite our mistakes and missteps, and even in the midst of unforeseen infirmities, a face-to-face with Jesus is the birthplace of faith and the beginning of courage.

Are you waiting to hear the diagnosis? Got a big meeting at 4:00pm PST? Does your neighbor need your forgiveness? Maybe it's time to take back your health? Whatever it is, let the word "courage" grow louder and louder inside your heart until it's a battle cry. Because like we learn from Edmund, the best we can do is know who our friends are when we head off to war. Amen to that. No matter who or what you're up against today, before you face them, face Him. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: What Biblical character can you think of that - even after wandering far from God - received courage by going back to the beginning for a face-to-face?

The Lion In Us

With less than a month away from PrayFit RISE Los Angeles, Loretta and I decided to go back to Narnia. We talked about Narnia last summer, and I hope you don't mind if we talk "courage" this week. Considered a classic in children's literature, the teaching principles throughout these C.S. Lewis stories are innumerable. And to think there are seven Narnia books, and rumors are swirling of a fourth movie. If you haven't seen or read them, the main character is a lion named Aslan; an alternate version of Jesus in these fantasy tales. Wiping away tears at the end of each film, Loretta and I both agreed that if we could hug Aslan, we'd do so and never let go. We'd follow him everywhere, never letting him out of our sight. If the most gentle and powerful being of all time were our closest friend and at our side day and night, we'd have courage to talk about God with anyone, anywhere, anytime. We'd forgive sooner and help more. And don't get us started on how much less we'd worry. (You know where I'm going with this, so I won't even say it.)

This month is a big one at PrayFit, but I know I won't be alone. Many won't be able to see Him at my side but they'll know He's there; by my words, my spirit, my heart and by this week's theme of devotions, my courage.

Over the next few days, we'll talk courage when it comes to our health and well-being. Fact is, whether we're super healthy, severely ill and anywhere in-between, we need godly courage to meet each day's needs. And all those needs can only be met by the Lion in us. Jimmy and Loretta Peña

Prayer Requests of Courage: Anyone facing something this week that you'd like us to help you pray about? Job interview? Doctor's appointment? Presentation? Sale pending? Trying to share Christ with a co-worker? Are you losing a battle with pride? It takes courage to face it all. List your need here or simply say "Unspoken" and this little band of your brothers and sisters promises to pray for you.

Approval-Free

I shared this prayer yesterday on social media, and I think it's perfect for us on a Friday. Ideal for the fitness-minded believer. Pastor Scotty titled it: A Prayer from Living as an "Approval Suck." Kinda catches you off-guard, right? Well, the prayer catches me between the eyes. Praying with you all. Have a good weekend. Approval-free. Dear heavenly Father, it’s not just apostles who need freedom from living for the approval of people; it’s all of us, it’s me. We can’t love people well if our need for affirmation, or fear of rejection, is greater than our love for you.

As I look at my relational brokenness and sin, I can see how “people pleasing” has played out in two ways in my story. On one hand, there’ve been people to whom I’ve looked to give me life. Their praise could make me, and their shame could break me.

On the other hand, there’ve been people in whose lives I’ve assumed the role of life giver. The need to be needed can be crippling, for all parties involved. I grieve both of these patterns, Father, but I also rejoice at how you’ve been freeing me. But I don’t want to live as an “approval suck”—even a little bit.

It’s only because the gospel is true, I can freely confess my sin and brokenness—without wearing the burden of guilt or a sense of being a spiritual pigmy. I’m so thankful for the liberty grace gives us not to pose and pretend. Because the gospel is powerful, I have hope for even more change, and bring it on Father.

I want to love others as Jesus loves me, and as he loves them; so help me to take back the power I’ve given certain people over my heart. I don’t want to shrink in the presence of anybody; and I don’t want to look to any human being to “complete me.” That’s your role Father.

So by the power Holy Spirit, keep blasting my heart with the gospel—keep bearing witness with my spirit that I’m your beloved child, Abba, Father. That’s the way to greater freedom; that’s the only way to relational health and emotional freedom. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ loving and liberating. Scotty Smith 

Make Believe

"So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing." --1 Corinthians 9:26Read: 1 Corinthians 9

As I was leaving Gio's Boxing Gym in Burbank some time ago, amid the familiar cadence of speed bags and jump ropes, something a cornerman yelled to his boxer caught my attention. "Stop trying to look like a fighter and be a fighter!" he said. I literally stopped in my tracks. What a powerful statement. Just how powerful, I'd realize just moments later.

Walking toward my truck, I came upon a film crew about to shoot a documentary -- a boxing documentary, no doubt. Lights, cameras and make-up. I stood for what seemed like years and watched a make-up artist applying shades of purple, black and blue to an actor's face and under his eyes. Boxing gloves? Check. Legitimate shorts? Those too. But he wasn't dressed for - nor returning from - a real battle. "Stop trying to look like a fighter and be a fighter," ironically echoed in my head.

I wonder about my faith. And maybe you wonder about yours. Am I a make-believer in life? Or do I help make believers with my life? Like the verse above, I don't want to shadowbox. I want purpose. Give me somethin' to hit.

--Jimmy Peña

Question: In what area of your life, spiritually or physically, do you need to stand to fight? How can the Prayfit community pray for you? List your battles below or simply say, 'Unspoken.'

Jesus Lifted ME. Speaking of something to hit. Can you all pray for us as we prepare for our first PrayFit conference? It's right around the corner. I covet your prayers. Also, we've unveiled the conference tee. The shirt says it all. You can help support the effort by preordering yours. It's available only until the conference and ships immediately after. Thanks for your help.

What's My Line?

What do I do well? Ever asked yourself that question? If, for instance, you dislike running, I doubt wind sprints came in at No. 1. But if you love cooking, I'm betting that "recipe-creator extraordinaire" may be front and center. If so, what time's dinner? In one of my favorite movies, A Few Good Men, Jack Nicholson gives one of his best performances. And in a behind-the-scenes look at the filming of it, cast members recall the first time they all sat around reading the script together. Everyone was simply reading and going about the business until it was Jack's turn. In character, holding nothing back, Jack delivered the line as if the camera was in his face. Witnesses say the room immediately sat up in its collective seat and rehearsal took on new meaning from that day forward.

Max Lucado once wrote, "Nobody else has been given your lines. The Author of the human drama has entrusted your part to you alone. Live your life, or it won't be lived."

Friends, what do you well? What do I do well? Answer: Our life. Nobody does our life like us. And those qualities of yours, your gift of giving, your ability to memorize, your high endurance, your heart for the homeless, your mind for math, your quick wit...those are the things that God used to form your role. And the world around you -- kids, friends, parents, teachers, spouses, bosses, staff -- they need you to speak your lines like you mean them.

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: The world will sit up in its collective seat when believers speak their lines. And when in comes to health, it's no different. When the Pastor tells a church to consider physical stewardship, we sit up. When a fitness-minded believer says full armor isn't half naked, we sit up. Our lives, our lines, our roles have to be lived. Nobody else can. Nobody else will. God is life's Casting Director, the world is His stage and our parts are ours to make a big deal about Him. Ask yourself, "What's my line?" and live it.

The Greatest Pleasure In Life

"People will be lovers of themselves." --2 Timothy 3:2Read: 2 Timothy 3

I happened to run across one of those motivational posters this weekend. You know, the kind with those powerful statements meant to inspire you to be all you can be. Well, even though it wasn't exactly new to me, this one caught my attention nonetheless. It said, "The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you can't." Evidently, people agreed because it had about a million "likes" underneath it. And why not? Who doesn't want to show the world? But then it dawned on me: How many times someone has actually said to me, "Jimmy, I don't think you can do that." How 'bout you?

You know, if there's one thing I've noticed about the fitness industry it's that there's a self-placed chip on its shoulder and the delusion that someone is daring to knock it off. For whatever reason, Godly confidence has been replaced with a harsh, in-your-face tone, backed up with visuals. That topic demands a week's worth of devotions on its own but let me take it further. Even if it was true -- even if the world placed bets against one's "ability" to be do something, in fitness or otherwise -- is proving the world wrong really life's greatest pleasure?

The correct answer brings me a long way to this point, and one that we try and get across at PrayFit: Let's not take so much pleasure in doing what others say we can't. Let's instead take pleasure in doing what God says we can. If they intersect, great. If they don't, even better. Besides, if man says I can't, and God says I shouldn't, I'd rather show Him than show them. But God runs this body. If you're jumping through hoops of comparison or climbing mountains of ego, stop. Drench your day in the gospel. The taunts and dares around you are subject to Jesus.

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Can you spend so much time in the gym or counting calories trying to "prove" the world wrong (whoever that is) that you actually miss what God is calling you to do with the health you're building? What if the world said, "Believer, I bet you can't invite a perfect stranger to church. I bet you can't give to the homeless person on the corner. I bet you can't be modest." If that's what the world said we couldn't do, I wonder if we'd try to prove it wrong. Would it help us if we realized those things are God's will already? Share your thoughts below.

The Comfort of Atrophy

Atrophy: The gradual decline in muscle; to waste away. I first learned of the word back in college while sitting around the lunch table with my fellow lifting buddies. A novice weightlifter, I was growing like a weed. I remember thinking - wait no - I remember knowing that the work and food I was putting to use in one week would be seen the next. It was just a natural mindset, and as it turns out, it was the only way to train, to think, to grow. I did nothing short of declare war with my humanity. Four years later, 18-inch arms and squatting small homes were testaments to that truth. But then...

Not sure when it began exactly, but over the years and through the heartache of illness I began to lose what I worked so hard for; a thought that would have crushed my younger self. If you train, you feel me. You know what I'm talking about. But the body has some amazing ways of pointing us to eternity. Atrophy is one of them. And what a comfort atrophy has become. Indeed, if atrophy had its own verse, it just may be 1 Timothy 4:8, "For physical training is of some value, but training in godliness has value now and in the life to come." Yes sir, if there's a bodily trait that should remind us to be thankful for grace, it's atrophy, especially if you consider the amount of work it takes to gain muscle and how quickly it disappears if left untrained for whatever reason.

Thankfully - unlike our frail flesh - grace requires no work on our part, no diligence, no steadfast effort. Does it induce those things in our lives? Yes, but are they necessary to sustain it? No. And as I navigate my health and push hard against the naturally occurring decline, I'm simultaneously reminded of, and comforted by God's age-defiant, atrophy resistant, eternally resilient grace. Dear friends, the longer I serve Him (and the smaller I get) the sweeter He grows. -Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Friends, we're vapors. We're quickly fading flowers. But isn't it something that the last muscle to go, the heart - where grace makes its home - also goes through atrophy? And when it can no longer sustain us or maintain us, it stops contracting. But grace will have only just begun. Have you declared war against your humanity? We're with you. That's why we're here to help you with the tools of training and food to help you navigate the battle. But here's a question: Pride wants to convince you otherwise, but who here is encouraged by atrophy?